Activities

Classes

Žiburys students working on creative projects in class

Žiburys offers kindergarten groups (Žiburėlis and Kiškiai) and eight grade levels. All classes are taught in Lithuanian. Students learn to read, write and speak Lithuanian, along with grammar, literature, Lithuanian history and geography, expressive reading, faith formation, singing, folk art and folk dance. Each grade has an age-appropriate curriculum, textbooks and exercises. The school uses materials published in Lithuania and in the diaspora, which students receive at the beginning of the school year. The school year begins on the second Saturday after Labor Day and ends in May.

Teachers

Žiburys School teachers

Our teachers actively participate in projects and seminars organized by the Lithuanian Educational Council of the USA, as well as the annual teachers' study week at Camp Dainava.

Folk art

Students' Lithuanian folk-art projects made from straw

Folk-art classes take place once a month. Students enthusiastically take part in hands-on creative projects and activities.

Lithuanian kitchen

Students and teachers during a Lithuanian cooking class

Lithuanian cooking classes take place once a month. Students learn to prepare traditional Lithuanian dishes in a safe and enjoyable kitchen setting.

Folk dance and song

Žiburys students performing Lithuanian folk dances

Folk-dance and singing classes are held every Saturday. Our students also participate in North American Lithuanian Song Festivals.

Library

Students choosing Lithuanian books in the school library

The school library was restored in 2018–2019. With support from Lithuania's Ministry of Education and Sport, the school purchased new Lithuanian books and shelving and introduced library cards for students.

Celebrations

Members of the school community during a Lithuanian celebration

Following Lithuanian traditions, we observe Užgavėnės, January 13 (Defenders of Freedom Day), February 16 (Restoration of the State Day), March 11 (Restoration of Independence Day), All Souls' Day, Christmas and Mother's Day.

Competitions

Student artwork for a postage-stamp drawing competition

Our students participate in art and writing competitions organized by the Lithuanian Educational Council of the USA, as well as the school's reading competition.

Yearbook

A page from the school's Skambutis yearbook

The yearbook collects student writing, drawings, photographs and moments from school events. Žiburys once published a yearbook called Skambutis (The Bell); the school decided it was time for Skambutis to ring throughout Detroit again.